Thimbolism.

Today is what would have been my mother's 94th birthday. I unearthed a couple of items that were bequeathed to me, and I shall show them off now. (A year ago, I showed off her spoon collection.)

First up a few thimbles that she used for both sewing and for flower arranging.

From left to right, we have one from Taiwan, China, Japan in the centre, and two from Britain.

Speaking of flower arranging, she also used these to show off her prizewinning roses.

If I had just a portion of her artistic skill and a green thumb, I'd try my hand at 生け花 (ikebana), which is celebrating its 125th year at the Ikebana School of Wafu. 

Mom also enjoyed her sherry and I have a quartet of her cups.

Lastly, I have a couple of copper/silver-plated plates/trays of hers. I don't know how old the smaller one is yet it is certainly lovely.

Whoa, this oval one dates back to the 19th century! (Or is 1847 just its designation?)

If anyone knows of a product with which I can polish these, I'd appreciate it. (Preferably one that I can find in Japan.) I'd like to see if I can get it to shine like this similar one I found on ebay.

Happy Birthday Mom!

ps. Happy 40th Anniversary to Indiana Jones as well!